Backlight: meaning, definitions and examples
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backlight
[ ˈbæklaɪt ]
display illumination
A backlight is a source of light that is placed behind an object, such as a screen or display, to enhance visibility and contrast. It is commonly used in LCD screens and other display technologies to provide appropriate lighting for the foreground content.
Synonyms
back illuminated, illuminator, light source
Examples of usage
- The backlight of the smartphone makes it easy to read in low light.
- Adjusting the backlight can improve the viewing experience on your monitor.
- The television's backlight enhances the colors of the picture.
- He turned up the backlight on his tablet for better visibility.
Etymology
The word 'backlight' combines 'back', meaning 'behind', and 'light', which refers to illumination. The usage of the term can be traced back to the rise of digital displays in the late 20th century when manufacturers began developing technologies to improve the brightness and contrast of screens. As LCD technology advanced in the 1990s and 2000s, the term 'backlighting' became widely used to describe the method of illuminating the screen from behind for better image quality. This advancement became critical for consumer electronics, such as televisions, computer monitors, and mobile devices, marking a significant evolution in display technology.